Youth Felicitares

In July 1956, the Youth Felicitares (YF) was founded and introduced as an organization under the auspices of Oziel Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, Prince Hall Affiliated, in the Jurisdiction of New Jersey by Past Grand Worthy Matron, Camilla R. Lockwood.

The purpose of the Youth Felicitares is to encourage girls to excel academically, spiritually and socially, to develop leadership skills and a commitment to charitable service in their community. Under the leadership of committed adult volunteers, girls are exposed to mentoring and a nurturing environment in which they are able to develop strong values, social conscience, a charitable spirit, and conviction about their own potential and self-worth.

Among the basic tenets of the organization are:

Good Moral Character

Good Citizenship

Service to Community

Personal Responsibility

Charity

Unselfishness

Membership is not limited to the daughters or relatives of Eastern Stars or Masons, but is open to any girl who ranges from 7 to 18 years of age, regardless of race, creed, color or national origin.

A Youth Felicitare is not a junior Eastern Star. However, upon reaching the age of 18, a Youth Felicitare is eligible for membership in the Order of Eastern Star after meeting certain criteria as outlined below:

Requirements for Membership in the Eastern Star for a Youth Felicitare:

Must be a member in good standing with her local Unit for at least five continuous years

Must be recommended by an Eastern Star who is a member of Oziel Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star or a Master Mason who is a member of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of NJ.

Must meet all other requirements for membership consistent with the Constitution and By- Laws of Oziel Grand Chapter

Organization Structure and General Guidelines Youth Felicitares are organized at a State level and officers are elected from the membership to conduct statewide projects. The officers are representative of the eight (8) districts in the State of New Jersey. Youth Felicitares are also organized locally into smaller clubs, called Units. Youth Felicitare Units are under the direct supervision of Eastern Stars who are members of a sponsoring chapter that is affiliated with Oziel Grand Chapter, OES~PHA.

Youth Felicitares have a uniform that applies to Members when attending District Meetings, State Assemblies, and any public affairs when representing the Youth Felicitares elsewhere. The uniform consists of a white blouse with elbow-length sleeves, a skirt (the color determined by the color designated to the district) white socks or stockings and black or dark shoes.